Skin tears, steri-strips or xeroform?

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Specializes in Med/Surg.

I work on a med surg unit and often have elderly pts with skin tears. Recently another nurse suggested I use xeroform on a tear, and after approximating the wound, I applied it. I was really impressed with how quickly and well the wound healed, it looked great after 5 days of bid changes. Since then I've been observing other nurses just putting steri-strips over a tear and now I'm wondering which is best? Any opinions? Thanks!

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Specializes in 5 yrs OR, ASU Pre-Op 2 yr. ER.

I know that xeroform, maybe crazy as it sounds, had to be given an MD order at the hospital i work with, because of the ointment on the gauze.

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Steri strips, or Op-site if available here. Yet, one little old fellow manages to "worry" the Op-site off within an hour of getting it put on. :uhoh3:

Suebird :p

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Specializes in Utilization Management.

We use Xeroform and Kerlix wrap, the object being to stabilize the wound without applying tape to the skin.

Those little stockinette thingies also are good to help keep a dressing intact. ;)

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Specializes in Hemo Dialysis.

I have had really great success using xeroform on all types of wounds and incisions over the years. Everything from minor scrapes to skin breakdowns and amputation sites.

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Specializes in Sub Acute and Wound Care.

I LOVE xeroform. We usually use it with Mepilex border or kerlix but we do it as a 3-5 day dressing.

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